The Process

• 1). You must be in good health to donate white blood cells. You also must be at least 17 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds. Do not take aspirin or any products with aspirin within three days before donating white blood cells.
  
  
• 2). Make sure you schedule an appointment with your local hospital or blood donation center to meet patient requirements because donated white blood cells must be used within 24 hours. Donations may be scheduled as often as twice a week.
  
  
• 3). Before donating, you will be asked to take prednisone, which prevents the release of materials in the body that can cause inflammation. This medication will help to increase the amount of white blood cells in your body.
  
  
• 4). A healthcare worker will inject a needle into one vein in each of your arms. The blood from one arm will run through a sterile tubing and into a centrifuge. In the centrifuge, platelets will be separated from your whole blood.
  
  
• 5). Once your platelets have been divided, your red blood cells, plasma, and a saline solution to replace fluid will be returned to your other arm. Only a small amount of blood will be taken out during the process.
  
  
• 6). The entire process takes up to two hours. While you are donating, you can watch TV, listen to music, or just relax.